SECONDARY FUNCTIONS OF TESTOSTERONE
The growth and maintenance of libido, the secretory activity of the accessory sex glands, and the general masculine physical characteristics are among the additional functions of testosterone.
The structural development and physiologic functioning (production of secretions) of the accessory sex glands are influenced by testosterone. Secondary sexual characteristics are influenced by testosterone. These features include increased bone growth (heavier bones), greater muscle, thicker skin, and a deeper voice (in the bull). During fetal growth, testosterone directs the descent of the testes. The presence or absence of testosterone determines the respective development of the penis and scrotum, or the clitoris and vagina. With normal male hormonal stimulation, the Wolffian (mesonephric) ducts become tubular portions of the male reproductive system, and the Mullerian (paramesonephric) ducts regress. In the female, the Mullerian ducts become tubular portions of the reproductive system, and the Wolffian ducts regress.
Source:
Rana Tanmoy (ed.). Principles of Veterinary Animal Physiology. CRC Press,2026. — 290 p.. 2026
More on the topic SECONDARY FUNCTIONS OF TESTOSTERONE:
-
Veterinarian -